Computational Fluid Dynamics Study of Modification to Front Wing Endplate of FSAE Race Car for Drag Reduction

This study focuses on the design and parametric optimization of the curved endplate on the front wing of a FSAE race car. ANSYS Fluent is used for mesh generation and numerical simulation. Post-processing of the results is completed in Fluent and ANSYS Ensight. By modifying the front wing endplates, outwash flow could be generated to reduce the pressure differential on the longitudinal axis of the front tire. Front tire wake could be controlled, and the drag of the car could be reduced. This study explores different configurations of the front wing endplate and aims to find the best geometry for drag reduction. Three endplate designs are considered: plain Gurney flap, Gurney flap with fillet, and angled flap with fillet. A geometry using curved endplate with Gurney flap was found to be the most effective and achieved 2.3% reduction in overall vehicle drag.